2021 Audi S4
2021 Audi S4 Review
- Turbocharged V6 provides strong acceleration
- Poised handling bestows confidence
- Modern and well-thought-out interior
- Quiet and relaxed over long distances
- Interior storage is merely adequate
- Touchscreen interface looks like an aftermarket add-on
- Wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay
- Premium Plus and Prestige trims are now equipped with a few features that were previously optional
- Part of the fifth A4 generation introduced for 2017
The 2021 Audi S4 is a high-performance version of Audi's small sedan, the A4. Powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, the S4 pumps out 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. That's 148 horsepower more than the standard A4 and 88 more than the optional engine in the A4's upgraded 45 TFSI trim.
More than just an A4 with some extra juice, the S4 adds a stiffer sport suspension and some upgraded interior materials to seal the deal. The extra performance doesn't require much of a sacrifice; the S4 is still a comfortable, quiet and easy-to-drive luxury sedan. For a full breakdown of the S4, where we cover everything from comfort to convenience, read our Expert Rating below.
Our verdict | |
The Audi S4 excels at combining eye-opening performance with a refined ride, and it offers excellent all-day practicality and comfort. Unfortunately, Audi hasn't integrated its latest technology into the S4 as smoothly as we'd like. | |
How does the S4 drive? | |
Our test car rocketed from 0 to 60 mph (with the help of launch control) in just 4.3 seconds. More impressive is the speed through the quarter-mile: It blazed through at 107 mph. The engine makes plenty of power everywhere and it sounds great doing it. This is one of the quickest sedans in the class. Handling is just as impressive. The S4 combines quick and accurate steering with standard all-wheel drive for excellent stability. We measured 0.95g on the skid pad, and we're sure the S4 will impress novice and experienced drivers alike. The S4's brakes offer good stopping power and excellent smoothness around town. But the noisy antilock braking system will raise some eyebrows (and heart rates) in panic-stopping situations due to the loud buzzing and intense vibrations from the antilock hardware. This is really the only performance demerit for the S4. | |
How comfortable is the S4? | |
The S4 is impressively comfortable. Driver fatigue, no matter the road, is minimal. The front seats are very supportive and comfortable, but we'd advise opting for seat ventilation because the nonventilated ones can get stifling on hot days. The adaptive suspension is the way to go on the S4; it's only a bummer that it's optional. Comfort mode handles broken surface roads with ease, while Dynamic mode keeps the body in check even under the most spirited driving. The S4 is relatively silent at all speeds and well isolated from both road and wind noise. In fact, the S4 is so quiet and comfortable that you can forget you're driving a performance sedan. | |
How’s the interior? | |
Well designed from the start, the S4 continues to be one of the easier sedans to use. Switches and controls are clearly labeled and work with pleasing precision. The 10.1-inch touchscreen, with Audi's newest infotainment software, is clear and relatively straightforward. Unfortunately, because of the S4's older interior design, the screen isn't well integrated and looks tacked on. Getting into the S4 is easy, though taller rear passengers might need to duck. The driver will enjoy one of the best seating positions in the class. The supportive seats allow for plenty of adjustment, as does the nearly perfect steering wheel, and visibility to all sides is very good. | |
How’s the tech? | |
Well-integrated technology has always been a highlight of any modern Audi. The S4 has Audi's newest touchscreen interface, and our test car was also equipped with the optional digital gauge cluster display known as Virtual Cockpit. While the touchscreen's graphics are sharp, the screen looks tacked on. The optional Bang & Olufsen audio system's sound quality didn't blow us away, but the upgrade from the standard audio system is worth it. Wireless Apple CarPlay capability is standard. We were less impressed by the S4's advanced driver aids. Many are not standard, a disappointment on a car at this price. On top of that, our test car's forward collision warning system was overly sensitive. On one occasion it made a rather eye-opening overreaction on an open highway with light traffic. | |
How’s the storage? | |
Though the S4's trunk isn't large, the load height is reasonable and the cargo area is free of any intrusions or irregularities. The rear seats fold reasonably flat to accommodate larger items, but they must be released from the rear seat area as there aren't any remote releases in the trunk. Interior storage isn't abundant, but there's enough room to keep your phone, sunglasses and parking card well organized and small drinks free and clear of your hands while driving. Got kids? There are easily accessible child seat anchors hidden below inconspicuous plastic covers. The decent-sized door openings and respectable rear legroom make it relatively easy to install both front- and rear-facing safety seats. | |
How economical is the S4? | |
The EPA estimates that the Audi S4 returns 23 mpg in combined driving. That number puts it square in the middle of the all-wheel-drive versions of the BMW M340i (25 mpg) and the Mercedes-AMG C 43's (21 mpg). We drove our test S4 on our 115-mile evaluation route and managed a credible 24.5 mpg using 91 octane fuel. | |
Is the S4 a good value? | |
The S4 is built to the high standards that we've come to expect from Audi. Our test car's exterior trim and paint were flawless, and all interior components fit together well and operated with precision. We're less impressed with the cost of the S4: Our Prestige level test car stickered at more than $65,000. A base S4 starts around $50K but doesn't offer some desirable options, such as the S Sport package. In general, competitors are slightly better equipped for the money. Warranties are pretty standard for the class with four years/50,000 miles for both bumper-to-bumper and powertrain coverage. BMW offers three years of free maintenance, which Audi does not, but you can prepay for future service visits when you purchase the S4. | |
Wildcard | |
The S4 is capable of covering most challenging roads with surprising speed. It is a forgiving and capable partner no matter your skill level. As an added bonus, the S4 is a sleeper; its conservative styling barely hints at the car's potential. It's only when driven hard that the car shows its true capability. This is a highly adaptable car with impressive road manners and performance capability. | |
Which S4 does Edmunds recommend?
Audi S4 models
The 2021 Audi S4 is available in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. All three come with a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine (349 horsepower, 369 lb-ft) and an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard.
2021 Audi S4 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Sponsored cars related to the S4
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Audi S4.
Trending topics in reviews
- spaciousness
- interior
- comfort
Most helpful consumer reviews
It's my first purchase in the Audi line. The S4 is fantastic. I'm 6'1" and lots of room. It's fast when you need it. And it's refined to cruise and be comfortable when you want it. It's my first, but certainly won't be my last Audi!!!
2021 Audi S4 videos
Read Description
NOTE: This video is about the 2018 Audi S4, but since the 2021 Audi S4 is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Extreme competition can make shopping for the right compact German sport sedan a daunting task. Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz all offer compelling vehicles at similar prices, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. In this video, we focus on things you should know about the Audi S4, which is one of our favorites in the segment.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Features & Specs
| Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD 3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $53,500 |
| MPG | 20 city / 28 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 349 hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Prestige 4dr Sedan AWD 3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $58,200 |
| MPG | 20 city / 28 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 349 hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Premium 4dr Sedan AWD 3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $49,900 |
| MPG | 20 city / 28 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 349 hp @ 5400 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite S4 safety features:
- Audi Pre Sense City
- Detects the threat of a front collision, warns the driver, and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't act.
- Audi Active Lane Assist
- Alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane without signaling and can steer to help nudge you back.
- Audi Connect
- Includes a variety of connection services, such as roadside assistance. In an accident, emergency responders are contacted automatically.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | Not Rated |
| Driver | Not Rated |
| Passenger | Not Rated |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | Not Rated |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | Not Rated |
| Driver | Not Rated |
| Passenger | Not Rated |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | Not Rated |
| Back Seat | Not Rated |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 5 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 9.9% |
Audi S4 vs. the competition
Audi S4 vs. Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
One of the S4's closest performance competitors, the CLA 45 is a seriously quick four-door luxury sedan. Its turbocharged four-cylinder pumps out 382 hp — an astonishingly high number for a four-cylinder engine — and almost 25 hp more than the Audi. Both are comfortable, well built and enjoyable to drive, but the CLA might just have the edge.
Audi S4 vs. BMW 3 Series
To match the S4's performance with a 3 Series, you'll have to go with the M340i version. Its turbocharged six-cylinder engine makes 382 hp. You can get all-wheel drive with it, too. While these two sedans are pretty well matched in the broad sense, the S4 excels in the finer details, such as steering feel and ride comfort.
Audi S4 vs. Genesis G70
While it doesn't quite match the S4, the CLA 45 or the M340i for performance, the Genesis G70 is definitely the bargain buy for this segment. The Genesis has a considerably better warranty, and it's equipped with a number of standard features that are only available as options on the S4. The G70 is a bit cramped for rear-seat space and cargo room, so it might not be the most practical of the bunch.
FAQ
Is the Audi S4 a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Audi S4?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Audi S4:
- Wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay
- Premium Plus and Prestige trims are now equipped with a few features that were previously optional
- Part of the fifth A4 generation introduced for 2017
Is the Audi S4 reliable?
Is the 2021 Audi S4 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Audi S4?
The least-expensive 2021 Audi S4 is the 2021 Audi S4 Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $49,900.
Other versions include:
- Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $53,500
- Prestige 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $58,200
- Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $49,900
What are the different models of Audi S4?
More about the 2021 Audi S4
2021 Audi S4 Overview
The 2021 Audi S4 is offered in the following submodels: S4 Sedan. Available styles include Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A), Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A), and Prestige 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A).
What do people think of the 2021 Audi S4?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Audi S4 and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 S4 5.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 S4.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Audi S4 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 S4 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Audi S4?
2021 Audi S4 Prestige 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
The 2021 Audi S4 Prestige 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $66,180. The average price paid for a new 2021 Audi S4 Prestige 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) is trending $4,549 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,549 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $61,631.
The average savings for the 2021 Audi S4 Prestige 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) is 6.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 5 2021 Audi S4 Prestige 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2021 Audi S4 Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
The 2021 Audi S4 Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $58,875. The average price paid for a new 2021 Audi S4 Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) is trending $4,652 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,652 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $54,223.
The average savings for the 2021 Audi S4 Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) is 7.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 5 2021 Audi S4 Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Which 2021 Audi S4s are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Audi S4 for sale near. There are currently 24 new 2021 S4s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $57,630 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Audi S4. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $3,490 on a used or CPO 2021 S4 available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2021 Audi S4s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Audi for sale - 12 great deals out of 12 listings starting at $7,858.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Audi S4?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Audi lease specials